Nagelsmann Wants to Continue as Germany Coach Despite World Cup Exit; Völler Backs Him
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Germany's Bundestrainer Julian Nagelsmann wants to continue his role despite the team's early World Cup exit.
- DFB Sporting Director Rudi Völler supports Nagelsmann, calling him a top coach, but acknowledges the decision is not solely his.
- Discussions about potential consequences and personnel changes are ongoing within the German Football Association, with some players also expected to step down.
Julian Nagelsmann expressed his desire to continue as Germany's Bundestrainer, even after the national team's disappointing early exit from the World Cup in the round of 16 against Paraguay. "I want to continue, but in football, you don't always have it in your hands," Nagelsmann stated in a ZDF interview. He emphasized his commitment, saying, "I am available. I am not someone who runs away. That is out of the question."
I want to continue, but in football, you don't always have it in your hands.
DFB Sporting Director Rudi Völler initially backed Nagelsmann, describing him as an "absolute top coach" and "probably the right one" to lead the team forward. However, Völler conceded that the final decision rests with the German Football Association as a whole and that discussions would take place in the coming days. Nagelsmann took over from Hansi Flick in September 2023, with Völler being his primary contact within the association during his tenure.
I am available. I am not someone who runs away. That is out of the question.
Meanwhile, Jürgen Klopp addressed speculation about his potential involvement, stating that while he understood his name was being mentioned, it was not the appropriate time to discuss it. He did, however, suggest that structural changes might be necessary. Former World Cup winner Mats Hummels called for a review of personnel, arguing that "consequences are screaming" from the leadership side and that discussions involving both the coach and the association are essential. Hummels also anticipates that some players might choose to retire from international football.
I find him still an absolute top coach.
Nagelsmann's contract with the DFB runs until after the 2028 European Championship, a timeline shared by Völler. The team's performance in the World Cup has triggered significant debate about the future direction of German football, with calls for accountability and potential shifts in both coaching and playing staff.
I understand that my name is mentioned, but this is not the time to talk about it, and certainly not with me.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.